Naveen harps on ‘inclusive growth’ in I Day speech

Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik harped on the theme of ‘inclusive growth’ in his Independence Day speech here today.

“Development of poor, youth, women, Scheduled Tribes and Scheduled castes, student and differently-abled persons is required for an inclusive growth,” Patnaik after unfurling the National Flag here at the state level parade at PMG Square here this morning.

The development of infrastructure, agriculture and allied sectors in the state was essential to achieve inclusive growth, the Chief Minister said adding improvement in infrastructure in rural areas will give a boost to agriculture and allied sectors. Odisha has more than 50,000 villages and over 100 small and big towns and the benefits of development must reach each of them for real inclusive growth, he said.

Appealing to the people of Odisha to be aware of their responsibilities along with their rights under the democratic set up, Patnaik said; “Independence is all about responsibility and commitment. Our goal should be to make India stronger and Odisha prosperous.”

Recalling the sterling contribution of Odia martyrs in the freedom struggle, the Chief Minister said the first banner of revolt against the British Raj was raised from the soil of Odisha in 1817. “British Rule could not be established in Odisha till 1803,” he lamented.

In keeping with the Sate Election Commission’s diktat not to make political speeches in view of the model code of conduct in force for the upcoming municipal elections in the state, the Chief Minister refrained from speaking about the achievements of his government

While the Independence Day was observed in Odisha’s major towns and cities amidst tight security, the red rebels took the liberty of unfurling Black Flags in certain left wing extremist (LWE) infested districts including Malkangiri.

The rebels reportedly unfurled black flags at Pansaput village under Chitrakonda block of Malkangiri while hoisting a black flag near a college at Kalimela town in the district. “The police immediately removed the black flag hoisted at Kalimela,” a senior police officer said.

Similarly, reports of black flags being flown in other districts were also received, sources said, adding that the Maoists had given a call to boycott Independence Day celebration in the state.

Adequate security arrangements have been made in all the sensitive and border districts besides major towns, said Director General of Police Prakash Mishra.